BMW’s M division has marked the 30th anniversary of the BMW M5 with the unveiling of the most powerful version of the iconic four-door saloon yet.
Set to be produced in a limited run of 300, the BMW M5 '30 Jahre M5' (30 years of the M5) builds on the performance gains of the recently introduced M5 Competition Pack.
It consequently gets a lightly reworked version of BMW M division’s twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 direct-injection petrol engine delivering an added 25bhp, at 592bhp.
This provides the 1870kg four-door with a power-to-weight ratio that is 14bhp per tonne up on the M5 Competition Pack, at 317bhp per tonne. Torque has also risen by 15lb ft, swelling to a new peak of 516lb ft on a band of revs between 1500rpm and 6000rpm.
The increase in reserves has been achieved through what BMW M division development boss Albert Biermann described as “tweaks to the engine management system and an increase in the turbocharger boost pressure”.
Drive is channelled to the rear wheels through a lightly reworked version of the standard BMW M5’s seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which boasts new software mapping. The result is the fastest series production M5 ever.
BMW claims 0-62mph in just 3.9sec and a top speed that is limited to 190mph in combination with an optional M Driver’s Package. Combined cycle fuel consumption is a claimed 28.5mpg and its CO2 emissions are rated at 231g/km.
Underpinning the new M5 30 Jahre is a chassis featuring the same subtle modifications incorporated on the M5 Competition Package, with firmer springs and dampers, a 10mm reduction in ride height and standard 20-inch wheels shod with 265/40 front and 295/40 rear tyres.
Other changes include more direct mapping for the electro-mechanical steering system, a separate control unit for the active M differential for faster reactions and a recalibrated dynamic stability control (DSC) system.
The BMW M5 30 Jahre is further distinguished from the standard M5 by a matt silver metallic body colour, darkened chrome accents for the kidney grille surround, door handle inserts and tailpipes and '30 Jahre' badges within the front wings.
Get the latest car news, reviews and galleries from Autocar direct to your inbox every week. Enter your email address below:
Join the debate
Add your comment
They're missing a trick with names
Best I can come up with is 5 a Day.
Sad to say, but..........?